Line Level (−10 dBV or +4 dBu)

[andyhof]

This question is in regards to the Piano 3 but i'm thinking it would be the same for other models.

I'm connecting this Piano 3 to a pair of ELX112p speakers (in stereo) and want to stick a device in between the piano and speakers to give me a better level before amplification.

I checked the user manual and these forums but can't find a definitive answer.

According to the user manual:
"LEFT and RiGHT OUT
¼ inch unbalanced line level outputs for amplifier or recording equipment. The nord piano 3 is a stereo instrument with separate signal paths for left and right audio channels. "

So since the output level is a bit on the weak side and the connections are unbalanced... i'm thinking the Line level output is -10dBV (the consumer audio norm.) Can anyone confirm this?

It makes a big deal when deciding what type of interface i buy.

-andrew

[DJKeys]

As far as I know, all Nord instruments have always had unbalanced outs. There is no issue plugging them into balanced inputs that I have run into. My mixer, compressor, and powered speakers are all balance inputs. Never had a volume problem.

-dj

[andyhof]

i Understand that it will “work” when connecting an unbalanced TS signal into a balanced TRS or XLR input.
My question is about the output voltage from the Nord.

Most 1/4" TS connectors connect to –10 dBV line level equipment, whereas 1/4" TRS connectors usually expect a +4 dBu line level. There’s a huge difference. My EV ELX112p speakers are expecting a balanced +4dBu signal.

Yes I will get a signal from the Nord and yes I can crank up the input gain
but can bump it up to appropriate levels with my HE Matchbox.
Here’s what I’m talking about:

https://www.prosoundweb.com/topics/audi ... ice_versa/

I’d like read some Nord spec sheet that tells me the exact output specs.

[waltwagner]

Anybody have the answer to this? Does Nord use -10 or +4 for their outputs? I'd love to know this, too. Nord's "specifications" never mention it, but it's a need-to-know in studio/stage applications.

[DJKeys]

I think all Nord instruments have unbalanced outs, at 10db-

-dj

[Swampfox]

I run my NS3 through an audio interface with selectable gain on its line level inputs. The -10db setting doesn't saturate the input stage no matter how hard you play. +4db barely registers on my meters when playing softly and is mostly down -30db or more with normal playing.

[DJKeys]

I run my NS3 through an audio interface with selectable gain on its line level inputs. The -10db setting doesn't saturate the input stage no matter how hard you play. +4db barely registers on my meters when playing softly and is mostly down -30db or more with normal playing.

What kind of interface do you have?

-dj

[Swampfox]

I run my NS3 through an audio interface with selectable gain on its line level inputs. The -10db setting doesn't saturate the input stage no matter how hard you play. +4db barely registers on my meters when playing softly and is mostly down -30db or more with normal playing.

What kind of interface do you have?

-dj

I use a Presonus Quantum.

[DJKeys]

I run my NS3 through an audio interface with selectable gain on its line level inputs. The -10db setting doesn't saturate the input stage no matter how hard you play. +4db barely registers on my meters when playing softly and is mostly down -30db or more with normal playing.

What kind of interface do you have?

-dj

I use a Presonus Quantum.

I have the Focusrite Clarett 8 Pre, which is basically the same setup. The Combo Jacks offer a variable gain input (automatic) and I run the inputs at about 2 o'clock and get plenty of gain into the monitors and DAW. In your interface, the preamp is bypassed completely when an instrument is plugged in. Have you tried the TRS Line inputs on channels 3-8 (not sure which Quantum you have)?

-dj

[Swampfox]

I have the Focusrite Clarett 8 Pre, which is basically the same setup. The Combo Jacks offer a variable gain input (automatic) and I run the inputs at about 2 o'clock and get plenty of gain into the monitors and DAW. In your inter thenface, the preamp is bypassed completely when an instrument is plugged in. Have you tried the TRS Line inputs on channels 3-8 (not sure which Quantum you have)?
-dj

Quantum 2632. In one iteration I had the output of the NS3 going into a DI then into MIC preamp. I got more gain at the cost of more noise (hiss). Thus, I accepted the 6db loss of using the balanced line level inputs coming from the unbalanced Nord.